Biography of Cella Neapolitan

I have been an impressionist photographer for ten years, recently adding jewelry design and collage art. While my heart will always be in photography ~ with its unique challenges and charms ~ my hands have been drawn to jewelry-making and my mind to the more expressive mixed media.

I am primarily a photographer of color, looking for abstract compositions whether in nature observed or the cultures of Europe and the American South. Mixed media work tends to be conceptual, often using vintage materials but reconstructed with a contemporary twist.

Professional memberships include Art ‘Round Tennessee, Association for Visual Artists, and Woman Made Gallery. My work has been shown internationally in over 100 juried and invitational exhibits.

Photography’s place in art has always been circumscribed for being based in technology and reality. And now, in this digital age, the aesthetic challenge is even greater. What makes a photograph art when apparently anyone can take a good picture?

The answer, in truth, is what it has always been … vision. Seeing ~ honestly, wholeheartedly, idiosyncratically ~ is key. While this comes naturally to a degree, I have trained my eye and learned to hunt for the revealing, emblematic shot. I have also trained my mind to be open and my spirit responsive to the visually unique.

I strive to create images that have meaning and yet a little mystery. When this happens, I am moved, viscerally affected by the experience of transforming the original impression into a material image. It’s truly like magic. And when these visions are shared, I feel I’ve connected in a way unique to photography.

Your images are so uplifting and gratifying ... very striking and yet peace-provoking.

I see a visually lyrical and sensitive beauty in your work ... inspiring and stunning.

I love the thought, the arrangement, and that heartwarming vintage feel that comes through.

Your work inspires me to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, makes me think, makes me wonder, makes me smile ... inspires me to be a better person.

You have such an eye for the beauty of natural art, appealing to the most tender of human emotions.